Turkish investments in Mosul expected to transform city into trade hub

MOSUL, Iraq

Turkish Consul General Serhad Varli described Turkish investments in the city as transformative, with the potential to create jobs and position Mosul as a regional trade center.

In an interview with Anadolu, Varli emphasized the significance of the Development Road Project, which aims to connect Iraq to Asia and Europe through Türkiye via rail and road networks.

He also highlighted Turkish-led projects in Mosul and the local expectations for Türkiye’s contributions to the city’s revitalization.

“One of Türkiye’s key goals is to support Mosul’s development and improve living standards,” Varli said.

“The Development Road Project is an important roadmap for us. Complementing this, we are striving to increase Turkish investments in every sector in Mosul,” he added.

Turkish companies driving change

Varli praised Turkish companies for their active role in Mosul, calling their investments “game-changers.”

Among the notable projects is the construction of Mosul International Airport, which is expected to be completed in the first half of next year.

“With the completion of the airport, we anticipate an increase in commercial, cultural, and economic interaction between Mosul and Türkiye,” he said.

He also highlighted a 600-bed hospital project led by a Turkish firm. Once completed, it will be one of Iraq’s largest hospitals.

Efforts to establish organized industrial zones in Mosul and Tal Afar are also progressing, Varli said.

These initiatives have seen significant advancements since Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s visit to Iraq in April.

“These industrial zones will enable Turkish businesspeople to make more investments in Mosul,” Varli said.

“Through these projects, vital business and investment ecosystems will be created. Mosul and Tal Afar will become key hubs for the Development Road Project and for regional and global trade,” he added.

Strengthening ties between Mosul, Türkiye

Varli underscored the historical and cultural ties between Türkiye and Mosul, which date back to the Ottoman era.

Türkiye has consistently supported Mosul, even during its most challenging periods.

“The people of Mosul have never forgotten this and never will, as they still acknowledge it today. This has played a significant role in the strength of our relations,” he said.

“As a state, through all our institutions, private sector, citizens, and academic circles, we aim to further develop our relations with Mosul and help it witness even brighter days.”

Varli also highlighted the contributions of Turkish state aid agency TIKA, which has carried out significant projects in Mosul and Tal Afar.

He underlined the interest in establishing a Turkish school in Mosul, with plans by the Maarif Foundation to open one soon. Additionally, the Yunus Emre Institute is preparing to open a center in Mosul to provide Turkish language education and other cultural activities.

*Writing by Seda Sevencan